ABB Robotics Sponsors Vincennes University and Fox Valley Technical College for Membership to the RIA

ABB Robotics is the first member of the Robotic Industries Association (RIA) to take advantage of the new Educator Sponsorship program by sponsoring Vincennes University (VU) and Fox Valley Technical College (FVTC) for membership to the RIA. The new program allows any RIA member to sponsor a teaching and training institution for an Educator Membership in the RIA. Eligible institutions include vocational and technical institutes and both two- and four-year colleges offering a curriculum and path leading to hi-tech, well paying jobs in robotics or related automation technologies.

In the Fall of 2009 VU set up a complete robotic training center in its new $9 million industrial training facility, the Indiana Center for Applied Technology (ICAT), which features 29 ABB robots and related work cells, and a full array of ABB software and controllers. VU offers a two-year associate degree in Computer Integrated Manufacturing & Robotics, and a series of robotic training courses in its Workforce Development program.

“With our state-of-the-art ABB Lab on campus, we are uniquely positioned to provide robotics education and training,” said David Tucker, VU’s vice president of workforce development and community services. “The RIA membership will allow our training to remain cutting edge through the many connections we will establish with a variety of RIA members.”

Earlier this year FVTC announced the installation of seven ABB robots and related software and controllers into its updated industrial training facility. A Phase II is planned for Fiscal year 2011 that will include the addition of arc welding robots, positioners, welding equipment and related software. FVTC offers a two-year associate degree in Automated Manufacturing & Robotics, and a series of robotic training courses in its Workforce Development program.

“Our affiliation with the RIA will allow our faculty and students to stay abreast of emerging trends in the robotic industry, and allow them to reach out to organizations that may be able to help further their training and career goals,” said Jerry Eyler, executive dean of FVTC.

Institutions will benefit from an RIA membership sponsorship by having the opportunity to post content, recruit students and solicit R&D projects via Robotics Online, complimentary or discounted RIA conference registration for students and faculty, placement of graduates with RIA members and other members-only offerings.

“The next generation of robot operators is in store for good paying, interesting and fulfilling jobs,” said Brian Huse, RIA director of marketing and public relations. “This new program will help more educators find partners to help train tomorrow’s workforce for exciting careers in robotics.”

The robotic training facilities at both VU and FVTC have also become authorized ABB training centers allowing robotic technicians to have easier access to comprehensive training and certification. “Both VU and FVTC are true partners,” noted Joe Campbell, ABB Robotics vice president of sales and marketing and RIA membership committee member. “ABB is very pleased to be able to provide the benefits of RIA membership to two of the most committed and innovative robotic training curriculums in the United States.”

Robotic Industries Association (RIA)Founded in 1974, RIA currently represents some 225 robotics manufacturers, system integrators, component suppliers, end users, consulting groups, and research organizations. In addition to its biennial trade show and conference (now known as Automate, previously known as the International Robots, Vision & Motion Control Show), RIA is best-known for developing the ANSI/RIA National Robot Safety Standard, serves as North America’s representative to the International Federation of Robotics and is the only source of North American robot sales statistics. Robotics Online is the world's leading site for robotics information.

Vincennes UniversityVincennes University of Vincennes, IN is state-supported with campuses in Vincennes and Jasper and additional sites such as the Indianapolis International Airport. In addition to offering 200 associate degree and certificate programs, VU also offers bachelor’s degree programs in technology, homeland security, nursing, and secondary education programs in mathematics, science, and special education. VU enrolls students from throughout Indiana, 26 other states, and 37 foreign countries. VU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Fox Valley Technical CollegeFox Valley Technical College of Appleton, WI offers more than 200 associate degree, technical diploma and certificate programs, and instruction related to 20 apprenticeship trades, in addition to providing services to business and industry. Annually, the college serves about 45,000 people throughout its five-county district.

ABB, Inc.ABB is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve their performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs about 117,000 people.